Author: Jim O Brien/CEO

CEO and expert in transport and Mobile tech. A fan 20 years, mobile consultant, Nokia Mobile expert, Former Nokia/Microsoft VIP,Multiple forum tech supporter with worldwide top ranking,Working in the background on mobile technology, Weekly radio show, Featured on the RTE consumer show, Cavan TV and on TRT WORLD. Award winning Technology reviewer and blogger. Security and logisitcs Professional.

Find friends at Electric Picnic 2025 with new tech device

One of the biggest pet peeves at music festivals is losing your friends in the crowd. Large crowds, loud music, and misunderstood messages can cause that once in a lifetime moment that you want to enjoy with your bestie when your favourite artist comes out on stage to end up being a far less historic, solo experience.

That’s all about to change as some lucky Three+ loyalty programme customers attending Electric Picnic 2025 can now apply to pioneer an innovative new wearable tech, an Irish festival first, called the Three Friend Finder. ( Link to apply for the Three Friend Finder is here )

The Three Friend Finder, powered by Totem Labs, connects you to your friends who are also wearing the device using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) by guiding you to their location using a ring of pulsing lights and without the need for any mobile phone service, WIFI, or Bluetooth. Not only that, the lucky owners of the device will also be guided to some secret gigs and experiences taking place over the weekend of the festival.

Three Ireland, a long-standing major sponsor of Electric Picnic, has big plans again for this year’s festival, while, as usual, keeping festival goers connected all weekend with Three charging stations and reliable Wi-Fi  and making sure festival goers can share every unforgettable moment with your friends.

The Three Music Stage is back at Rankin’s Wood and is the main destination for discovering incredible new music. Once again, it will feature a host of Irish and international talent, promising to be a festival highlight.  Three+ members will also get exclusive fast-track entry to the silent disco and side-of-stage access.*

The legendary Three Charge & Chill area is back in the heart of the main arena and has become a sanctuary to recharge both phones and tired festival goers without missing any of the action.

A major highlight at Charge & Chill will be full sets by three emerging Irish artists Roe Byrne, Emily Doyle and Rebecca Lane who were chosen to perform out of over 500 TikTok artist entries as part of Three Ireland’s City Stages music project.

The Charge and Chill area also will include complimentary charging to ensure your phone is powered up all weekend, unrivalled views of the main stage from its dedicated viewing platform, exclusively for Three+ customers*. Also, stay tuned to Three Ireland’s social channels as the area will also host some last-minute surprise big name secret music performances.

Not only that, the company has this year introduced the Three+ Bus, a 52-seater bus that will travel on a daily return from Dublin to the festival grounds from Friday to Monday, and which is available on a discount to Three+ customers*.

Tanya Townsend, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Three Ireland, commented, “The organisers of Electric Picnic and Three have a similar ethos; to connect people through truly memorable moments and, of course, also to showcase and support the best of emerging Irish music artists. We are excited about the Three Music Stage line-up and in particular our three chosen City Stage artists who will perform sets at Charge and Chill and also sing with some yet to be announced globally renowned artists over the weekend. 

Tanya continued, “As a company that prides itself on pushing advanced technology, we are thrilled to also trial the Three Friend Finder at the festival, a device that helps you track your friend’s exact location without the need for mobile phone service, WIFI or Bluetooth. Who knows, perhaps this will become the must-have device for the 2026 festival season.”

*Exclusive to only Three+ customers. Show your Three+ account to avail the benefits. See full terms plus.three.ie

QCY MeloBuds N70 Review

QCY, a global leader in the wireless audio industry has unveiled the QCY MeloBuds N70—its latest flagship true wireless Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) earbuds designed to bring more clarity, control, and comfort to everyday listening. With a powerful dual-driver system including a high-sensitivity MEMS tweeter, refined acoustic structure, and adaptive noise cancellation that adjusts in real time, the innovation is built to sound better in every moment and we have been testing these out the last few weeks and they are impressive for the price and stick it up to others in the market that cost much more, check out the full hands-on review below.

Dual-driver synergy for deeper, clearer sound

The MeloBuds N70 pairs a 10mm ring-shaped liquid silicone dynamic driver with a high-sensitivity MEMS tweeter, blending deep, rich full-bodied bass with crisp, articulate highs. Working in tandem, the two powerful drivers form a spacious, well-layered soundstage that highlights texture, separation, and tonal nuance with impressive precision, to deliver audio quality that approaches HiFi-level performance. Whether you’re listening to richly produced playlists, dialogue-driven podcasts, or immersive gaming soundtracks, the N70 brings out the subtle textures that keep every session engaging. 

Refined design that sharpens treble and refines space

To bring treble forward with greater clarity and precision, the MeloBuds N70 features a custom tweeter sound guide that extends high-frequency response across a wide 20Hz–40kHz range. This is complemented by QCY’s dual acoustic guide tube, which regulates airflow between the drivers to reduce resonance and phase shift. A balanced driver layout helps maintain stereo integrity by minimizing phase distortion and keeping left–right channel alignment consistent, to ensure that spatial cues stay sharp, vocals remain defined, and directional details hit with striking clarity.

 

Smarter Noise Control that tuned to your surroundings
The MeloBuds N70 features adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a technology that reduces unwanted ambient sound for clearer, more focused listening. With up to -56dB of suppression across an ultra-wide 5.5kHz bandwidth, the system intelligently adjusts in real time by analyzing both surrounding noise and in-ear fit to automatically optimize cancellation strength. Whether easing off in a quiet café or ramping up on a busy train, it keeps ear pressure low and clarity high without the need for manual toggling. For added flexibility, users can also fine-tune ANC levels via the QCY app.

For calls, a three-microphone array per earbud helps isolate your voice with beamforming tech and an inward-facing mic that captures speech directly from within the ear canal. A wind-resistant mesh, acoustic chamber, and anti-wind DSP algorithm further reduce wind noise, supporting clearer conversations even in breezy environments.

Fast Charging and Wireless Power for Week-Long Use

QCY MeloBuds N70 delivers enduring battery performance built for extended daily use. On a single charge, the earbuds provide up to 10 hours of continuous playback, with the charging case extending total battery life to as much as 50 hours, which helps minimize the need for frequent power top-ups throughout the week. When time is limited, a 10-minute quick charge gives up to 2 hours of use, keeping users powered through last-minute plans.

The case also supports both wired and wireless charging, offering flexible and convenient ways to stay charged on the go. Designed for real-world use, it features soft dual-layer silicone tips in five sizes for a secure, fatigue-free fit, and carries an IPX5 water resistance rating to handle sweat and light weather with ease.

Control and connect, your way

The MeloBuds N70 supports dual-device connection via the QCY app, letting you stay linked to two sources at once—like your phone and laptop—for seamless switching between calls, music, and meetings. Audio automatically prioritizes the active device for smooth multitasking. 

The QCY App

 

Availability & Price

Available in Midnight Black, Starlight Purple, Titanium Gold, the MeloBuds N70 combines acoustic depth with everyday usability in a clean, comfort-focused design. It is now available on QCY’s official store and through authorized retailers, with pricing starting at USD $59.99 (pricing may vary by market).

 

Product Link (US Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FHD4L86L

Official Website: https://www.qcy.com/products/qcy-melobuds-n70

Other QCY Reviews

Video Review

CCPC and ASA sign data-sharing agreement to strengthen social media influencer regulation

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has signed a new data-sharing agreement with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which will enhance regulatory oversight of social media platforms.

The agreement will enable the ASA to share information it receives through its online reporting portal while remaining in line with data protection laws. This will give the CCPC greater access to reports from the public of potential breaches of the law.

Under consumer protection law, social media influencers must not mislead consumers through unfair practices such as hidden or mislabelled advertising, or they could breach consumer protection law. This means they must clearly label posts that are commercial in nature.

A social media post may still breach consumer protection law even if it is properly labelled if the content is false or misleading.

The new data-sharing agreement means ASA will have the ability to share information regarding suspected breaches, which the CCPC may investigate further.

The CCPC, as a statutory body, has a range of enforcement tools to ensure that consumer protection law is adhered to, including compliance notices, fixed payment notices, undertakings, prohibition orders and prosecution.

Patrick Kenny, commission member at the CCPC, said:

“Consumer law protects consumers when engaging with the commercial content posted by online influencers. Commercial content from influencers must be clearly labelled as such and must also not be misleading. With the ASA, we have produced guidance for influencers to help them follow the law. This year we issued our first compliance notices against two prominent influencers.  We continue to monitor this sector closely and will act where we see breaches here.

“The new data-sharing agreement allows the ASA to share reports from the public and will support us in protecting consumers when it comes to social media advertising.”

Orla Twomey, chief executive of the ASA, said:

“We are delighted to formalise this data-sharing agreement, which marks a significant step towards enhancing regulatory outcomes for consumers in Ireland, ensuring a strong, responsive and resilient framework for the future. Social media advertising has been a key area of our focus, and this agreement is a further strengthening of cooperation between ASA and CCPC.”

Anyone concerned about suspected false or misleading advertising can contact the CCPC directly.

The agreement follows the publishing of new guidelines for influencers and social media advertisers by ASA and CCPC in October 2023.

Arrive AI revolutionizing deliveries with AI & smart sensors

By incorporating TOF sensors, Arrive AI aims to tackle one of the biggest bottlenecks in the delivery industry: inefficient pickups. Currently, couriers – human or autonomous – servicing large mailboxes at strip malls or office complexes follow an inefficient process. Each stop requires physically opening boxes to check for outgoing packages. With TOF-equipped Arrive Points, couriers will know in advance which mailboxes hold items and how much truck space is required. The result is fewer wasted stops, lower fuel and battery use, faster deliveries and reduced congestion.

Beyond logistics, the data can highlight courier efficiency, empowering users to choose the most reliable providers for their delivery or return needs.

“Time is money, and even small gains in logistics efficiency add up fast,” said Arrive AI CEO Dan O’Toole. “This is another way we’re improving the product and redefining the delivery experience for everyone.”

Torrey Bievenour, Arrive AI Chief Technology Officer, said Arrive AI’s research and development team will use TOF data and AI to detect patterns regarding package sizes, counts, delivery times, retrieval times and product times to help streamline supply chains.

The TOF sensors will provide low-resolution data that will be analyzed cost-effectively by edge AI. This eliminates the need for bulky cameras and expensive processors within the unit, freeing up more space inside Arrive Points for packages.

“We can do a lot with a little,” Bievenour said.

In 2014, O’Toole envisioned a smart mailbox that could accept drone deliveries and beat giant delivery companies to the U.S. Patent Office to protect his invention. He secured that patent in 2017 and has been refining it ever since. The mailboxes, now called Arrive Points, offer a climate-assisted space for deliveries from any human or autonomous courier that is connected to a platform capable of interacting with IoT devices and issuing emergency alerts.

In addition to the basic design and temperature control element, Arrive AI has secured U.S. patents that cover drone delivery management and tethering, anti-theft mechanisms and intelligent chain-of-custody control. The company has 58 patents pending for its Autonomous Last Mile solution filed across 22 countries and has secured several trademarks. See details at https://www.arriveai.com/intellectual-property .

Can You Have Multiple WhatsApp Accounts?

WhatsApp has grown far beyond its origins as a free texting app. In 2025, the service counts over 2.8 billion monthly active users worldwide, making it the most-used messaging platform on the planet. It processes more than 100 billion messages daily, a volume unmatched by competitors like Telegram or Signal.

With so much of daily communication – personal chats, business updates, even customer service—flowing through WhatsApp, a natural question arises: can you run multiple accounts on the same phone? For freelancers balancing client groups, small business owners separating sales from personal life, or anyone with both personal and professional networks, this is not a trivial issue.

The short answer: yes, it’s possible, but with caveats. WhatsApp’s official app still treats each account as tied to one phone number, yet over the past two years Meta (WhatsApp’s parent company) has added features that make managing multiple accounts far less painful than before.

One account, one number: the starting point

By design, WhatsApp accounts are linked to a single mobile number. Verification happens via SMS or voice call, and the account identity remains locked to that number. Unlike Instagram or Gmail, you cannot simply add multiple logins under one app profile.

This simplicity is one reason for WhatsApp’s global adoption—it reduces spam and identity abuse. But it also creates friction for users who legitimately need more than one account.

The dual-SIM solutionTwo numbers, two WhatsApps

For years, the main workaround was using a dual-SIM phone. Many Android devices—especially in markets like India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia—ship with two SIM slots. That lets you activate two WhatsApp instances: one for each number.

Some manufacturers (Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus) even ship a “Dual Apps” or “App Twin” feature in their Android skins. This clones the WhatsApp app, allowing you to run both accounts side by side with separate icons. In practice, this gives you two fully functional WhatsApps on one device without third-party hacks.

On iOS, the path was messier. Until recently, you could only run one WhatsApp per iPhone, unless you installed the business version (WhatsApp Business) alongside the consumer app. That gave you two accounts but forced you to juggle different interfaces.

Official support arrives: WhatsApp’s multi-account feature

In late 2023, Meta announced official support for multiple accounts in the same WhatsApp app—at least on Android initially. By 2024, the rollout expanded globally. Users can now add a second account under “Settings → Accounts → Add Account” and switch between them without logging out.

The feature was designed for people carrying both personal and work numbers. You still need a second phone number (SIM or eSIM), but you don’t need to juggle two apps or third-party clones.

This update was overdue. Meta’s own research showed that nearly 20 percent of WhatsApp users in emerging markets already relied on unofficial methods to run multiple accounts. Bringing the feature in-house reduced security risks while aligning WhatsApp with competitors like Telegram, which has allowed multi-account switching for years.

WhatsApp Business as a workaround

Even before multi-account support, many users paired the regular app with WhatsApp Business. Originally built for SMEs, WhatsApp Business supports catalogs, automated greetings, and labels for customer chats. But technically it functions as a second WhatsApp tied to another number.

Today, many freelancers still use this combo: personal conversations in the consumer app, client interactions in the business app. Meta reports that over 200 million people worldwide actively use WhatsApp Business monthly, making it one of the most successful “secondary” apps in its portfolio.

Limitations and risks

Despite progress, multiple accounts on WhatsApp aren’t seamless. Key issues include:

  • One number per account: You still cannot merge accounts or run one number across two devices without using the “Linked Devices” feature (and even that has limits).
  • Backups are account-specific: Each account needs its own cloud backup in Google Drive or iCloud. Switching phones means migrating each separately.
  • Notification clutter: Running two accounts means double the notifications. While you can set custom ringtones and mute groups, management still requires discipline.
  • Policy compliance: Meta bans unauthorized modded versions of WhatsApp (like GBWhatsApp or YoWhatsApp), which some people used for multi-account access. Using these can result in permanent bans.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I use two WhatsApp accounts on one phone?
    Yes. On Android, you can either use the built-in “Dual Apps” feature from your manufacturer or WhatsApp’s own multi-account support. On iOS, you can combine the main app with WhatsApp Business, or rely on the official multi-account rollout once it reaches all devices.
    Do I need two SIM cards?
    Yes, you need two phone numbers. These can be physical SIMs, an eSIM, or a virtual number that receives SMS. WhatsApp requires each account to verify via a unique phone number.
    Can I use the same number for two accounts?
    No. WhatsApp does not allow one number to run two accounts. However, the same account (tied to one number) can be mirrored across multiple devices using the Linked Devices feature, which supports up to four secondary devices.
    Is WhatsApp Business mandatory for multiple accounts?
    Not anymore. With WhatsApp’s native multi-account feature, you can manage multiple accounts in the same app. WhatsApp Business remains useful if you want business-specific tools like product catalogs or chat labels.
    Will I get banned for using cloned apps?
    Possibly. Meta warns that unofficial mods or clones violate its terms of service. While millions still use them, bans are not uncommon. The safer path is to stick to WhatsApp’s official app or the Business variant.
    Can I separate notifications for each account?
    Yes. On both Android and iOS, you can assign custom tones and notification settings per account, making it easier to distinguish between personal and professional messages.

 

How digital twin technology integrated with (BIM) can transform building lifecycle management

Relocatable modular buildings (RMBs) represent a sustainable construction method where buildings are assembled and transported easily using prefabricated modules. However, challenges in management and logistics hinder their wider adoption. In a new study, researchers developed an innovative digital twin facility management system tailored specifically for RMBs.

This advanced framework integrates cutting-edge technologies to enhance management efficiency throughout the building lifecycle, establishing a foundation for wider digital twin integration in construction.

Relocatable modular buildings (RMBs) represent an innovative and growing solution for flexible and sustainable construction. These buildings can be quickly assembled from prefabricated “modules” and easily transported, minimizing costs and environmental impact while providing safer and cleaner construction environments. However, the management of assets and modular units for reuse and relocation across multiple lifecycles remains a major challenge in RMB projects.

To address this, a research team led by Associate Professor Yonghan Ahn from the School of Architecture & Architectural Engineering at Hanyang University ERICA in South Korea, developed a new digital twin (DT)-based framework for facility management of RMB projects. “Digital twin technology is a groundbreaking tool that offers a digital replica of physical assets, integrating real-time data, predictive analysis, and decision-making abilities,” explains Prof. Ahn. “Although digital twins are gaining popularity in other fields, their use in modular construction remains limited. We introduce a novel digital twin-enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) tailored specifically for RMBs.” The team also included contributions from Dr. Dennis Nguyen from Hanyang University. Their study was made available online on May 05, 2025, and published in Volume 176 of the journal Automation in Construction in August 01, 2025.

The new DT-FMS integrates building information modeling (BIM), internet of things (IoT), and geographic information systems (GIS) to create a detailed virtual model of RMBs. This model supports real-time monitoring, performance analysis, and logistics simulations across the building’s lifecycle. BIM offers robust 3D modelling and comprehensive building information. IoT provides real-time sensor data. GIS contributes critical geographic data, supporting effective logistics of modular units and location-based decision making.

This framework is structured across three interconnected layers: physical, digital, and service. The physical layer forms the foundation for real-time tracking and communication among different physical components such as resources, modular units, and people, including stakeholders, engineers, and workers. The digital layer includes modeling tools, data integration, and analytics. Finally, the service layer allows users to monitor, control, and interact with the DT framework, supporting effective decision making throughout the building lifecycle. 

To demonstrate the practical application of the framework, the researchers conducted a case study on a relocatable modular school system in South Korea. DT-FMS enhanced the decision making for module distribution and reuse, resulting in improved management efficiency. 

“Our research highlights the important role of digital twins in promoting a circular economy by enabling the reuse, reconfiguration, and optimal relocation of modular units, thereby minimizing waste and maximizing value throughout repeating project cycles,” remarks Dr. Nguyen.

Reference

Title of original paper: Digital twin framework to enhance facility management for relocatable modular buildings

Journal: Automation in Construction

DOI:  10.1016/j.autcon.2025.106249

How LED Headlights Are Revolutionizing Car Lighting Technology

The automotive lighting industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with LED headlights leading the charge toward safer, more efficient driving experiences. Modern vehicles increasingly feature these advanced lighting systems, and for good reason. LED technology offers significant advantages over traditional halogen bulbs, making them an essential upgrade for drivers seeking enhanced performance and reliability.

The Clear Advantages of LED Technology

Superior Energy Efficiency

One of the most compelling benefits of LED headlights lies in their exceptional energy efficiency. LED headlights consume about 80% less energy than halogen lights, dramatically reducing the strain on your vehicle’s electrical system. This improved efficiency means your alternator doesn’t have to work as hard to generate power, which can extend battery life and potentially improve fuel economy.

For hybrid and electric vehicles, this energy savings becomes even more critical. For a battery-operated car, this reduced energy consumption means the strain on the power source is greatly decreased, and the driving range is increased. Traditional halogen bulbs waste most of their energy by converting it to heat rather than light, making them far less efficient than their LED counterparts.

Extended Lifespan and Reliability

LED headlights have a minimum of 20 times longer lifespan than their alternative halogen headlights. While halogen bulbs typically last between 500 to 1,000 hours, LED lights continue shining for up to 30,000 or more hours. This remarkable longevity translates to years of dependable service.

2000 hours lifespan means that it would need you to spend 60 years behind the wheel to burn out the LED lights. This extended durability reduces maintenance costs and eliminates the frequent headlight replacements that plague halogen bulb users.

Fiat 500 headlights image provided by ONLINECARPARTS.co.uk

Enhanced Brightness and Safety Performance

Improved Visibility

LED headlights provide significantly brighter illumination compared to traditional options. Unlike traditional halogen bulbs, which produce a yellowish light, LEDs emit a crisp, white light that closely resembles daylight. This enhanced visibility proves crucial for night driving safety, allowing drivers to spot road signs, obstacles, and pedestrians more effectively.

LED headlight bulbs are capable of emitting an extremely high level of brightness that is much brighter and the light is much more concentrated than other car headlight bulb technologies. The wider and farther range of visibility significantly increases driver safety levels, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

Instant Illumination

Unlike some competing technologies, LED headlights can be on/off instantly, while halogen lights take a moment to reach their brightness even at low beams. This instant response proves vital in emergency situations or when driving in changing light conditions, ensuring optimal visibility when you need it most.

As AUTODOC Blog notes, “Driving safety and comfort largely depend on the headlight brightness. Therefore, every car owner must monitor the condition of their car lights.” LED technology makes this monitoring easier while providing consistently superior performance.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Reduced Heat Generation

LED lights have unparalleled efficiency when it comes to producing less heat. Halogen bulbs tend to generate a lot of heat besides emitting light, which puts additional stress on your car’s battery. This reduced heat output makes LED headlights safer for both the vehicle’s electrical system and surrounding components.

Long-term Cost Effectiveness

While LED headlights require a higher initial investment, their extended lifespan and reduced maintenance needs make them cost-effective over time. This longer lifespan reduces the number of replacements and keeps maintenance costs low. The energy savings also contribute to overall vehicle efficiency.

Technical Considerations and Installation

Advanced Design Features

Modern LED headlight systems incorporate sophisticated cooling mechanisms to maintain optimal performance. ND LED bulbs can last for a long lifespan of over 50,000 hours thanks to features like dual copper heat pipes and high-speed cooling fans that ensure efficient heat dissipation.

Compatibility and Customization

LED technology offers unprecedented design flexibility. LEDs offer customization options to look more cool. You may change the design of the light and some other functions. This versatility allows manufacturers to create distinctive lighting signatures while maintaining functional excellence. 

The Road Ahead for LED Technology

Market Adoption

The automotive industry continues embracing LED technology at an accelerating pace. At Consumer Reports, 55 percent of the 2018 models we tested had LED headlights. Of the 2019 models we’ve tested, 86 percent had LEDs. This rapid adoption reflects both consumer demand and manufacturer recognition of LED advantages.

Safety Improvements

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported a total of 34,439 car accidents in its latest Traffic Safety Facts report, of which a staggering 51% to 67% occurred at night and during low light conditions. Enhanced lighting technology like LEDs plays a crucial role in addressing these safety concerns.

Making the Upgrade Decision

When considering LED headlight upgrades, drivers should evaluate their specific needs and driving conditions. LED headlights are brighter than halogen and traditional light bulbs, offering better road sign recognition. The combination of improved visibility, energy efficiency, and long-term reliability makes LED headlights an excellent investment for most drivers.

The revolution in automotive lighting technology continues advancing, with LED headlights representing a significant step forward in safety, efficiency, and performance. As these systems become more affordable and widely available, they’re transforming how we approach nighttime driving, making roads safer for everyone while reducing environmental impact through improved energy efficiency.

For modern drivers seeking the best combination of performance, reliability, and long-term value, LED headlights represent the clear choice for illuminating the path ahead.

 

 

Ergo Announced as Title Sponsor of Clontarf Rugby Club

Ergo, Ireland’s largest IT solutions provider, is proud to announce its sponsorship of Clontarf Rugby Club, ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 season. The partnership reflects Ergo’s commitment to investing in its local community, with their headquarters located in nearby Eastpoint Business Park, Clontarf.

Paul McCann, Chief Executive Officer at Ergo, said, “We are incredibly proud to partner with Clontarf Rugby Club ahead of the upcoming All-Ireland League Rugby season. At Ergo, we believe in empowering local organisations that unite communities and inspire excellence. Clontarf Rugby embodies ambition, teamwork, and community spirit – values that closely align with our own. Through this partnership, we aim to help nurture the next generation of sporting talent while demonstrating our commitment to local initiatives.”

Through this partnership, Ergo will serve as the title sponsor of Clontarf Rugby Club, providing essential support to enhance the club’s facilities, overheads and outreach programmes. The sponsorship will play a vital role in supporting Clontarf Rugby’s continued growth and development, building upon their storied legacy as one of the most successful and longest-running All-Ireland League clubs.

Eoin Daly, Chairman of Clontarf Rugby Club, said, “We are grateful for Ergo’s significant investment in Clontarf Rugby Club. Their support will directly strengthen our facilities, programs, and the opportunities we offer to our players. Through this partnership, Ergo is not only backing our teams on the pitch but investing in the future of our entire club and community. Such commitment is vital for ensuring that Clontarf Rugby Club remains a thriving institution for generations to come.”

Photo credit  – Shane O’Neill – Coalesce.

Deloitte opens the 2025 Fast 50 awards

Deloitte Ireland is inviting the country’s fastest-growing and most innovative technology companies to apply to be part of the prestigious Deloitte Fast 50 awards. The programme, which celebrates home-grown entrepreneurship, ranks the 50 fastest growing indigenous technology companies based on revenue growth over the last four years.

The list features both private and public listed technology companies that have demonstrated creative strategies, sound management practices and marketplace vision, driving them to achieve the status of high-growth leaders.

“The dynamic shifts in the macroeconomic landscape since the 2024 awards have intensified businesses focus on resilience and upholding the highest standards of quality across their organisations,” explains Jams Toomey, partner and Fast 50 programme lead at Deloitte.

“The changes in our current trading environment have shifted our focus here at home in Ireland. More than ever, we realise we need to invest and support indigenous businesses to insulate Ireland and keep us an innovative and exciting place to work and live. It’s why I’m passionate about the Deloitte Fast 50 awards, because every year, for 26 years, we celebrate the 50 fastest growing tech companies on the island of Ireland. Each business is a real-life example of the incredible indigenous companies that are being talked about so much.

“For any company considering applying, previous ranking companies have included unicorns Wayflyer and Tines,” continues Toomey. “That shows the calibre of our winners. The rankings are trusted, respected and purely quantitative based, solely looking at growth, so it’s an objective ranking. We hear from previous participants how this has helped them when looking for external investment. In this environment, when investors are being sharper and smarter with their money, this is invaluable. I look forward to seeing which companies apply and seeing many of them at our awards ceremony in November.”

This year’s awards programme will include several award categories that companies can enter in addition to the overall ranking. 2024 winners of these awards include Catagen for the Impact Award in association with Meta.

  • Growing New Technology Award in association with Google: This award recognises a company that has created or introduced a new or innovative product or service to international markets, which helped grow their business over the last four years.
  • Impact Award in association with Meta: This award recognises a company that has made a significant impact within the current year.
  • Women in Technology Advocate Award in association with NetSuite: This award will be presented to an individual who has demonstrated through their actions that they are an advocate for increasing participation by, and promotion of, women in the technology sector.
  • Scale Up Award in association with Scale Ireland: This award recognises a company that has demonstrated an impressive ability to scale up/expand overseas over the last four years.
  • Financial Services Innovation Award in association with Financial Services Ireland: This award recognises a company with an innovative product or service that is having a disruptive impact within the financial services industry.
  • The Rising Star award in association with Enterprise Ireland: This award will recognise a company that has demonstrated a promising growth trajectory and the potential for inclusion in the Fast 50 rankings in years to come. Companies being considered for this award must have operating revenues accounting for a minimum of 2 years and less than 4 years.

Application details and further information about the programme can be found here: https://www.deloitte.com/ie/en/Industries/tmt/technology-fast-50-awards.html

The closing date for entries is 19 September 2025 and the winners will be announced at a ceremony in Dublin on 27 November 2025.